Turkey Travel FAQ
Travel advice and frequently asked questions when travelling to Turkey. Check it now!
Thinking of visiting Turkey? Interested in visa regulations, when to go, currency exchange, customs, and transportation? We've got you covered! Turkey has something unique to offer: a rich history, rich culture, and breathtakingly beautiful scenery. It's a popular holiday destination for visitors from all over the world. Below, we deal with the most common Turkey travel questions to help you prepare for an easy and memorable trip.
Turkey Travel Questions
Q1. Can I withdraw money from ATMs?
Visitors may withdraw money in Turkish Lira as well as Euro and U.S. Dollar with their debit cards from the ATMs in Turkey. The majority of ATMs offer English language or other language options for the convenience of foreigners.
Q2. Can I use my credit cards for shopping?
Visitors may use their credit cards and debit cards for all kinds of purchases. It is advisable, however, to carry some cash with you in case you take trips away from the city center or travel to smaller towns or villages.
Q3. What is the local currency in Turkey?
Turkish Lira is the local currency of the Republic of Turkey. Visitors can exchange their cash money for Turkish Lira at exchange offices and banks.
Q4. Can I drive in Turkey with my driver's license?
Foreigners may drive in Turkey, but they need to keep their passport, international driver's license and the vehicle license with them all the time. Turkey drives on the right side of the road and the advanced highway network allows easy access to different corners of the land.
Q5. What kind of sockets are used in Turkey?
European two-pin sockets are widely used in Turkey as everywhere in continental Europe.
Q6. Do I have to speak Turkish to interact with people during my visit?
While Turkish is the official language, English is widely used in large cities, resort areas, tourist areas, restaurants, and malls. It is not hard to find locals who speak English, especially tourism staff, in places like Istanbul, Antalya, Cappadocia, and Bodrum.
Q7. Can I use my mobile phone in Turkey?
Many international GSM operators provide coverage in Turkey in addition to local GSM operators such as Turkcell, Avea and Vodafone. You may ask your GSM operator to activate the international roaming function of your mobile phone before travelling to Turkey or just obtain a new SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card from local operators in Turkey.
Q8. What are the opening and closing times of museums in Turkey?
Q9. What are the opening hours of pharmacies in Turkey?
Q10. What are the opening hours of shopping centers in Turkey?
In Turkey, shopping centers are open every day offering a variety of trademarks and services from usually from 10.00 am until 22.00 pm.
Q11. What is the time zone in Turkey?
Q12. Do I need any vaccinations before going to Turkey?
Q13. Is it safe to visit Turkey now?
Yes, Turkey is generally safe for travelers, especially in large cities and tourist spots like Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Antalya. However, as in any destination, be aware of your surroundings, follow local advice, and check travel advisories for updates.
Q14. Do and don'ts in Turkey?
✅ Do: Be respectful and say hello, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, try local cuisine, and respect Turkish customs.
❌ Don't: Talk about sensitive political issues, disrespect Atatürk (the founder of Turkey), or disregard local etiquette in mosques.
Q15. What should I know before travelling to Turkey?
Prior to your visit, be sure to review visa requirements, pick up some basic Turkish phrases, and understand that haggling is a way of life in bazaars.
Q16. What is the best part of Turkey to stay in?
It depends on what you’re looking for! Istanbul is great for history and culture, Cappadocia offers breathtaking landscapes, Antalya is perfect for beach lovers, and Bodrum is ideal for a luxury seaside escape.
Q17. What is the best cash to take to Turkey?
The most appropriate currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY), but euros (EUR) and US dollars (USD) are also acceptable in some tourist areas.
Q18. When should we visit turkey?
The best time to visit Turkey is in spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) when the temperatures are comfortable, and the popular spots are not so crowded. The coastal resorts are ideal in summer (July–August), and ski resorts such as Uludağ are best in winter (December–February).
Q19. Which part of Turkey is most beautiful?
Turkey is full of stunning destinations! Cappadocia is famous for fairytale landscapes, Pamukkale for thermal terraces, Istanbul for history and modernity combined, and the Turquoise Coast for beautiful beaches and turquoise waters.
Q20. Why is Turkey famous for food?
Turkish cuisine is a fusion of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Central Asian, and Balkan cuisines, making it incredibly rich and diverse. Kebabs and mezes, baklava, Turkish tea - the country's culinary heritage is a must-try for any visitor.